Mystery illness strikes down birds across US south and midwest

Scientists are trying to find the cause of an affliction that leaves victims with crusty eyes, swollen faces and the inability to fly

A mysterious illness is killing birds across several states in the south and midwestern US, and wildlife scientists are rushing to try to find the cause, with many victims suffering from crusty eyes, swollen faces and the inability to fly.

Wildlife managers in Washington, Virginia, Maryland and West Virginia first began receiving reports of sick and dying birds with eye swelling and crusty discharge, as well as neurological signs in late May, according to a statement from the US Geological Survey, which added: No definitive cause of death is identified at this time."